With spring in the air and flowers in full bloom, it's the perfect time for a trip. Starting from March, several tourist attractions in Beijing have reopened, offering residents and visitors a wealth of spring travel options. Let's explore these hidden gems together!

Cao Xueqin Memorial Hall

On March 1st, the Cao Xueqin Memorial Hall, a key destination for Redology culture enthusiasts, reopened. This hidden cultural gem is located in the heart of the city, with its elegant and exquisite atmosphere reflected in the blue bricks, gray tiles, window grilles, and brick carvings.

In the sixth year of the Yongzheng reign during the Qing Dynasty, after Cao family's assets were confiscated in Nanjing, Cao Xueqin returned to Beijing with his family. Historical records show that, following an imperial decree from Emperor Yongzheng, the Cao family moved into a 17-and-a-half-room old house in the area of Suanshikou outside Chongwenmen. This is the only Cao Xueqin residence documented in historical records. Cao Xueqin lived and wrote here for many years, and it is the birthplace of the literary masterpiece Dream of the Red Chamber.

Covering an area of 790 square meters, the courtyard consists of three sections with a building area of about 440 square meters. The museum features the permanent exhibition "Cao Xueqin's Former Residence Exhibition". The second courtyard displays thematic exhibitions such as "Origins of the Residence," "Archaeological Sites," and "Footsteps in Suanshikou."

Here, visitors can explore the history of the architecture, Cao Xueqin's life, the history and folk customs of Qing Dynasty Beijing, and the literature of Dream of the Red Chamber.

Nearly three centuries later, the original appearance of the old residence has been restored. Through Dream of the Red Chamber, Cao Xueqin's cultural legacy has transcended over a hundred years of history and space, attracting an increasing number of visitors to trace his footsteps and experience the world of the Red Chamber.

Address: Northeast corner of Ciqikou, Dongcheng

Beijing Ming Tombs National Forest Park - Mangshan National Forest Park

On March 1st, the Mangshan National Forest Park of the Beijing Ming Tombs National Forest Park reopened. In spring, Mangshan is full of vitality, with nature coming back to life, attracting many residents and tourists to explore and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.

The Mangshan National Forest Park is the largest national forest park in Beijing, covering nearly 130,000 acres of artificial forest, with a forest coverage rate of 96.5%. It is truly a "natural oxygen bar."

The massive stone-carved Buddha stands tall, the colorful painted corridor is as beautiful as a painting, the stone steps lead upwards, and the ancient-style Ming Dynasty pagoda rises gracefully… Strolling along the wooden plank road, the picturesque scenery unfolds like a scroll, with the water blending with the sky, making you feel as if you are in a landscape painting.

Recommended Routes:

Route 1: Starting from the Health Forest Long Corridor at the foot of Mangshan, ending at the Small Heavenly Pond. This is a 1.2-kilometer wooden plank road that is relatively flat and safe, making it especially suitable for family visits. Parents can let their children closely experience the changing beauty of nature.

Route 2: From the ticket booth to Wuguantai, this is a 2.3-kilometer hiking path. Reaching Wuguantai offers a panoramic view of the city, forest, Tianchi, and the Ming Tombs.

Route 3: Starting from the Longmen ticket booth, this scenic route leads uphill with 1,299 stone steps. You can enjoy different views along the way. This route has moderate difficulty, with a rugged path and plenty of wild charm, although it doesn't reach the peak of Mangshan.

Address: No.2, Mangshan Lu (Rd), Changping

Du Zhong Park North Area

The North Area of Du Zhong Park in Chaoyang District recently completed renovations and upgrades, officially reopening to the public. These upgrades not only improve the park's landscape but also introduce new facilities for public convenience, offering a more comfortable and green space for relaxation.

Along the water features, a newly built waterside platform meets residents' need for relaxation while enhancing safety for observation. In the Ginkgo Garden, newly paved wooden walkways make it easier for visitors to explore, using eco-friendly materials that are both beautiful and durable. New accessible pathways have been added to accommodate the elderly and people with disabilities.

In the Fragrant Garden, visitors can quietly enjoy reading, while in the Health Garden, a variety of therapeutic plants, such as mint, patchouli, and chamomile, have been planted. The North Area, using the existing micro-topography, has created several sheltered sunny spots, where new children's play areas, fitness squares, and leisure pavilions have been built to meet the needs of visitors of all ages.

Address: Du Zhong Park, Sanjianfang Township, Chaoyang

Nangong Camping and Sports Park

On March 1st, Nangong Camping and Sports Park, located within the Nangong Tourism Scenic Area, reopened to the public. Covering 150 acres, the park is conveniently located near the Nangong exit of the Beijing-Hong Kong-Macau Expressway, making it easily accessible. The park is a comprehensive, multifunctional theme park focusing on fitness, family activities, and outdoor camping.

The park offers a variety of sports activities, including football, basketball, tennis, high-altitude challenges, paintball, and team-building exercises. Family-friendly activities include a fitness adventure park, go-karting, and jungle crossing. The outdoor camping area features tent zones and self-service barbecue facilities, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway with the whole family.

Friendly Reminder: The park is closed every Tuesday, so plan your visit accordingly.

Address: Nangongbinhe Lu (Rd), Wangzuo Town, Fengtai

Lingshui Juren Village

On March 1st, the Lingshui Juren Village scenic area reopened to the public.

Lingshui Juren Village is one of the most culturally rich ancient villages in the western suburbs of Beijing. Since the Ming and Qing dynasties, the village has produced 22 provincial scholars (Juren), 2 successful candidates in the imperial exams (Jinshi), and more than 10 students of the prestigious Guozijian Academy. In the early Republican era, six people graduated from Yenching University, earning the village the nickname "Juren Village."

Lingshui Village boasts several ancient residences of scholars, such as those of Liu Maoheng and Liu Zengguang. These courtyards, typically comprising three to five courtyards, feature traditional Chinese architectural elements like archways, stone screen walls, high steps, large doors, spacious halls, intricately carved beams, and walls with simple yet elegant brickwork. The architecture carries a refined "rural scholar" style.

Address: About 1960 meters north of the intersection of Jingla Lu (Rd) and Gaopu Village East Road, Zhaitang Town, Mentougou

ShengCunDao Outward Bound Park

On March 1st, the ShengCunDao Outward Bound Park officially reopened. Located to the north of the International Conference Center, east of the Science New Town, west of ancient temple sites, and south of Huairou District, the area is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering fresh air and beautiful surroundings.

Covering a vast area of over 1,000 acres, the ShengCunDao Outward Bound Park is divided into six zones: Craft Park, Agricultural Area, Rock Climbing and Archery Park, Mountain Training Camp, Expansion Training Area, and Dining & Accommodation Area. The park offers a variety of hands-on activities, such as survival training, self-rescue drills, and craft workshops, aiming to foster creativity and teamwork among young visitors.

Address: No. 6 Hongluo Donglu (E. Rd), Huairou

Translator: BAI Jing

Reviewer: FENG Hhaoxuan